MeDevIS PLATFORM

Source: WHO

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Context

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the Medical Devices Information System (MeDevIS), an innovative online platform.

Details

• MeDevIS is the first global open-access clearinghouse for information on medical devices, aiming to support governments, regulators, and users in the decision-making process related to the selection, procurement, and use of medical devices for diagnostics, testing, and treatment of various diseases and health conditions.
• This is the first time WHO has developed such a global repository on medical devices, based on its experience with the WHO Priority Medical Devices List (MDL), which itself was based on the experience of creating the WHO Essential Medicines List (EML).
• Approaching its 50th anniversary in 2025, EML is regarded as a pillar of public health in countries across the world, supporting health progress and touching billions of lives.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Database:
  • Device Types:The MeDevIS platform includes information on 2301 types of medical devices used for a broad range of health issues, including reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health, noncommunicable diseases (e.g., cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes), and infectious diseases (e.g., COVID-19).
  • Device Details:Users can access detailed information on each device, including type, intended use, level of healthcare systems supporting the device, scope, and required infrastructure.
• Global Accessibility:
  • Open Access:The platform provides open access to its repository, making it a valuable resource for stakeholders worldwide.
  • International Naming Systems:MeDevIS references two international naming systems: the European Medical Device Nomenclature (EMDN) and the Global Medical Device Nomenclature (GMDN). These systems facilitate registration, regulatory approval, procurement, supply, inventory management, tracking, and pricing of medical devices.
• Simplified Information Retrieval:
  • Single Platform:Replaces the need for paper-based literature searches across multiple publications with non-standard device names.
  • Standardized Naming:Aims to simplify the naming of medical devices, making it easier for users to find reliable information.
• Support for Policymakers:
  • National Policy Development:Useful for national policymakers to develop or update national lists for the procurement of health technologies and devices.
  • Health Insurance and Reimbursement:Assists agencies in developing health insurance and reimbursement policies for patients.

Benefits

• Enhanced Decision-Making:
  • Provides a single, reliable source of information for decision-makers, aiding in the selection and procurement of medical devices.
  • Supports healthcare practitioners and patients in navigating the growing complexity and number of medical technologies.
• Global Standardization:
  • Promotes global standardization of medical device information through the use of EMDN and GMDN.
  • Facilitates international collaboration and harmonization of regulatory practices.
• Improved Access to Medical Technologies:
  • Especially beneficial for resource-limited settings by providing critical information that can improve access to life-saving medical technologies.
  • Contributes to the progress towards universal health coverage.

Challenges

• Data Privacy and Security:
  • Ensuring the security and privacy of sensitive medical device information is paramount.
  • The platform employs advanced security measures to protect data integrity.
• User Training and Adoption:
  • Adequate training and user support are essential to maximize the platform’s effectiveness.
  • Continuous engagement with stakeholders to improve the platform based on user feedback.
• Integration with Existing Systems: Integrating MeDevIS with existing healthcare and regulatory systems can enhance its functionality and user adoption.

Sources:

WHO